Based in Washington state, Dr. Mathis operates an international practice focusing solely on premium rock mechanics engineering and rock mass characterization work, primarily for the mining industry.

Originally from Nevada, he obtained a degree in mining engineering from University of Nevada - Reno in 1981. He was employed after graduation with Call and Nicholas, conducting statistical rock mechanic source code development and statistical rock mechanics design. He returned to school in January 1984 and graduated with a doctorate degree in rock mechanics from the University of Lulea (Sweden) in 1988. Employment thereafter was primarily with Steffen Robertson and Kirsten as their senior North American rock mechanics engineer. He resigned this position in August of 1995 and began Ursa Engineering.

His 18 years of experience are primarily in statistical characterization of rock masses and design of excavations in rock. He has had sole responsibility for characterization of , and rock mechanics design for, a number of operations, including BHP Diamonds sampling declines and open pit operations in the NWT, Barrick's Meikle mine (feasibility study, Nevada), and Getchell's Turquoise Ridge (feasibility, Nevada), amongst others. On these, and other projects, he has instructed client personnel and advised clients on correct data collection methodology. Design is conducted using both statistical packages which he has coded coupled with the best available from other sources.

Much of his free time is spent either developing innovations in rock mechanics technology (theory, monitoring, or rock support), wood working, or wandering in the mountains. He is happily married with two young children (which you may hear if you call) and spends considerable time in his home office.